I have to write about Ga-Ga again. It seems strange for me to write about anything else. I’ll work my way back into posting about normal life this week.

Promise.

For now, here are some things I’ve learned, in no particular order:

1. It’s not an unnatural thing to lose a grandmother.

Grandmothers are supposed to go before us.

It’s not an unexpected thing.

But somehow, that doesn’t really matter.

Doesn’t make it any easier.

2. The greater the love you felt from your grandmother, the more it hurts when she’s gone.

It’s true.

3. As I’ve looked at photos of Ga-Ga over the past few days, it’s felt as if her eyes were alive and looking at me.

I know that sounds strange.

Maybe a little kooky.

But I’m just sharing my experience.

4. The tears I’ve cried have been a combination of grief over losing her and gratitude for having been her granddaughter.

Most of the time, I can’t distinguish between the two.

Such a unique blend of emotions.

5. A grandmother is one of the most important roles in life.

I hope I get the privilege of being one someday.

When I do, I’ll carry Ga-Ga along with me.

6. Seeing a person you love before they die is a precious thing.

When my sister and I made plans to travel to Tennessee to see Ga-Ga last month, we waffled a little bit. It was a busy time for both of us, and we considered waiting. Ultimately, we both decided to go, and it was during that short trip to Tennessee that I got to:

Eat breakfast with Ga-Ga. We had pancakes and bacon and she asked me “Where are your slippers?” when she saw my bare feet. She always thought I’d catch pneumonia if I didn’t have slippers on.

Hold her hand. It was frail and soft.

Rub Pond’s Cold Cream on her face. She was getting ready to take a nap and she asked me if I would. I gently rubbed it onto her cheeks and she looked into my eyes in the same way I imagine she did when she first held me after I was born. It was love and it was connection. I close my eyes and repeat that moment again and again.

Tell her how much I loved her. Even though I know she already knew, it was important to me to say those words to her clearly.

I’m so glad Betsy and I got to see her.

7. Loss is such a universal experience.

So many of you have lost grandmothers and understand how much it hurts, and the love you’ve communicated to my family has meant a lot. Thank you so much for your kind words and prayers over the past few days. They have helped so much.

8. Truvy was right. Laughter through tears is the best emotion.

Sometime after my Christmas episode aired on Food Network Saturday, my sister and I discovered that during the entire first half of the show, I was wearing two different earrings.

1242 Comments and 21 Replies

I’m so glad you and Betsy got to visit your Ga Ga before she died. Oh, those were hard moments, but memories to cherish.

My husband and older son didn’t stop mid-week to see his dad when they went to a meeting in the town he lived…knowing we’d all be there over the weekend to celebrate Christmas with him. My FIL died before we got there on the weekend. My husband felt SO BAD he didn’t take the time to stop with our son. He’d been there the week before to see his dad. You can NEVER count on seeing a loved one ‘later’.

OK…now I’m glad I haven’t erased your show from Sat. from my dvr…now I need to see those 2 different earrings!!

702

Brandy On Monday, December 10 at 5:04 pm

I’m currently on an airplane, 30,000 feet in the air, and doing the ugly cry. My Mimi is my very best friend and I can’t imagine life without her. I lost a piece of my heart when my great-grandmother died a few years ago. I’m so sorry for your loss.

703

Sara On Monday, December 10 at 5:07 pm

Thank you for sharing everything you wrote about your grandma in your last two posts. I felt like I was reading what my heart feels, still, for my grandma. I lost her twenty years ago- I was sixteen- and I still miss her every day and feel blessed to have been her granddaughter. And I laugh every year when I make her brandy balls at Christmas; they’re what you’d call “stout” to say the least XOXO to you and your family through this tough season of your lives. May you find comfort in your memories and in your faith in the Lord.

704

Connie On Monday, December 10 at 5:07 pm

Bless you Ree. I remember so well how it was to experience my first real loss of someone close to me and it was my grandmother. Love how you’ve honed in on the things we learn in death. Glad you’ve got such good memories.

705

Lindie On Monday, December 10 at 5:07 pm

First, I am so sorry for your loss. When I was a little girl I was asked many times what I wanted to be when I grew up. I always said I wanted to be a Nana and I am now, with 9 of my own. I will always miss my own Nana though.

706

Sharon On Monday, December 10 at 5:09 pm

So sorry for your loss. Sending you lots of hugs and prayers.

707

Jackie On Monday, December 10 at 5:13 pm

I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Ga-Ga. She was a pretty incredible lady it seems.

I know what you mean about that connection while putting on the cold cream…the last thing I did for my dad before passed away in the hospital was to put some lotion on his dry face…there’s a look between the two of you that needs no words. I was so tired after work that day and wanted to go home but something told me to make that one hour trip and I am so grateful that I did. It’s nice you and Betsy got to go together.

The holidays are difficult after a great loss. I hope you will find great comfort in your memories and your family.

Love that you had on two different green earrings BTW…hilarious!

708

Pam On Monday, December 10 at 5:18 pm

Ree, I love being a grandmother , have been for 6 years now, I think I’m doing pretty good at it, my little boys love to be at my house but I’m going to ga ga my game up a bit.
The part today with the cold cream really got to me. You were a good granddaughter
And will be a perfect grandmother. Love to you and the family.

709

Lynda B.P. On Monday, December 10 at 5:19 pm

wow, you expressed in words so many of the things I have felt over losing someone I loved and for all the gratitude that went along with having had them in my life in the first place. Very beautifully stated. Thank you for sharing!

710

Daphne On Monday, December 10 at 5:20 pm

Your email was right on about so many things. In the past 7 years, I’ve lost my two grandmas and two grandpas. They all lived very long, happy lives but that doesn’t make things better when it’s YOUR grandparent! The last one to pass away was in August and was my maternal grandfather. He was two weeks shy of his 91st birthday. We had a big 90th birthday party for him last and I was so happy we got to go and see him happy and healthy, just a bit slower! HA! Then in April he found out he had pancreatic cancer and there wasn’t anything they could do for him but keep him comfortable. We were able to take our two boys down Memorial Day weekend to see him while he was still in fairly good health. I’m so happy now that we did that even though it seemed inconvienent at the time because of the distance we had to travel in just a few short days. The kids kept saying he didn’t look sick and they loved every minute of the visit. I’ll cherish that time alone with him forever!

711

lilysy On Monday, December 10 at 5:20 pm

Beautiful.

712

Denise On Monday, December 10 at 5:21 pm

It sounds like you were both blessed to have had each other! Reading your Tears at Ga-Ga’s post gave me a chance to peek in on your relationship with her. What a special bond you had and you are so fortunate to have had that. Those memories are the things that will creep up on you and give you a little nudge, knowing she’s still around – in your heart and mind. Take your time to grieve and celebrate and remember. The world will still be here, crazy as always. We’ll be here too!

713

Maggie On Monday, December 10 at 5:23 pm

You and your family are in my prayers. Both my Grandma & Mother used Pond’s cold cream and I confess when I rub it on each night it is because the scent reminds me of them. Bet there is a great big jar of it in heaven for all our special ladies.

Number 2 couldn’t be more true! I lost my Pa-Pa last year two weeks before I graduated from college and it still pains me to this day. He was everything your Ga-Ga is to you to me. Every day I think about him, and miss him more. I wish it got easier, maybe eventually it does, but for now I do my best not to cry because he wouldn’t want that. Plus when I cry all I want is a big hug from my Pa-Pa so it’s a horrible circle to get caught in.

715

missi On Monday, December 10 at 5:25 pm

I lost my grandmother 21years ago @ the age of 22. It changed me forever. She was not just a grandmother, she was my best friend. That hole has never filled, but I did learn to live with the loss. I take flowers to her on her birthday and at Christmas every year. She was such a lady. oh how I miss her. Ree, let the tears heal you. Allow yourself to talk about her as long as you need to. I will be holding you and your family up in prayer. so sorry hon

716

Dorine Losasso On Monday, December 10 at 5:27 pm

Rhee, firstly, let me offer you my most sincere condolences. My mother died one year ago on Saturday. She was a GG to her great grands, which was, I think, her most important role in life. Sounds to me that she and your GaGa had a lot uncommon….love of family.

Your post about your GaGa moved me to tears. I am a grandmother of 6 and my biggest wish is that I can be the sort of influence to them that your GaGa was to you.

How fantastic that you have all these wonderful memories of her, they will keep her alive in your heart forever.

717

Melanie H. On Monday, December 10 at 5:29 pm

Awww, Ree. I’m sorry to hear about your “ga-ga”. By the story you told, I think we all can tell what she meant to you. Know that she’s watching over you always! <3

718

Sharon H. On Monday, December 10 at 5:30 pm

I’ve had tears each time I read of the love you and she had – and others in your family, I’m sure.
My mom is 81 and I already cry for the time she won’t be here – for myself, but especially for my two daughters who love her so very much.
Normal? Normal is what you’re writing right now! Don’t give us abnormal, please

719

Jane Hawkins On Monday, December 10 at 5:32 pm

You are a wonderful granddaughter and I’m sure Ga-Ga was so very proud of you. She would
love the way you speak about her now. My prayers are with you and your family.

720

namccy v. On Monday, December 10 at 5:34 pm

I lost my mom when I was 18 . Holidays seem to be the most difficult.. unfortunately I can’t tell you it gets any better but I will tell you as we live our life with our children and grandchildren we share so much of those who have gone before us with them it keeps their memory alive and that’s the important thing…to honor them.

721

Ginger On Monday, December 10 at 5:35 pm

I’m going to look for those earrings! I’ve always wanted to be just like my Grandma. She showed me love when it seemed that everyone else couldn’t or wouldn’t. She could make me feel so beautiful and that she loved me just because I was me. A real Grandma is made of pure love.

722

Sharon in CA On Monday, December 10 at 5:35 pm

Ree, I am so sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose someone that you love so very much. I am the Grandmother of a 3 year old boy and he is the absolute joy in my life! I wasn’t close to either of my Grandmothers and I know I missed out on something special. You were so fortunate to have had such a wonderful Ga-Ga.

723

Tiffany Miller On Monday, December 10 at 5:35 pm

*hugs*

724

tracyo On Monday, December 10 at 5:37 pm

Ree, thank you for sharing your feelings with us so beautifully. I think this may be your most precious post yet, in my eyes anyway. Hugs to all of you.

725

Linda On Monday, December 10 at 5:37 pm

Your words made me miss my grandma all over again, and it has been 19 years since my grandma passed. The love never lessens and the memories stay close. I miss her. Sounds like you and i were lucky.

Oh so sorry for your loss, Ree. I lost my grandmother in March, and I totally understand where you are right now. I will definitely be praying for you and your family, I know how hard it is. It such a blessing that you had her with you for so long, but I also know it doesn’t make it any easier.
HUGS!
Ashley

727

Debbie Rice On Monday, December 10 at 5:45 pm

Hey Ree, The Ponds moment with your Grandmother touched my heart. Something you will never forget because it was a physical connection and that eye contact. What a treasure, just the two of you. thanks for sharing that personal moment.
Wishing you good and warm memories.

728

Jerri C. TN On Monday, December 10 at 5:50 pm

So sorry about your broken heart & your loss of Ga-Ga. I lost “Ma” 6 years ago & still I find myself thinking about her all the time & missing her so much. A grandmothers love is so perfectly raw & so perfectly unconditional. Hugs to you.

729

kat-in-texas On Monday, December 10 at 5:55 pm

A grandmother is a true blessing from God. I’m glad you and I had wonderfully, loving grandmothers. We are better women for it.

One thing I’ve learned in life: “I don’t regret most things I’ve done in life…but I always regret when I don’t do something”…I’m glad you “did something” and visited your lovely Grandmother. What a wonderful moment of memories you made and also the opportunity to say goodbye. You’ll always have that in your heart. I’m so sorry for your loss.

Sending you my heartfelt sympathy at this time of loss. I know that your memories of your Ga-Ga will always be an inspiration to you. My kids call my mother in law Gaga and I thought they were the only ones in the world to use hat name as I’d never heard it before. Guess it’s a universal name for “wonderful lady”!

733

Boston Gemmie On Monday, December 10 at 5:59 pm

I will never forget when my Grandma Nan was in the hospital and unresponsive. She had a pacemaker and it was keeping her alive. My Dad and other family members were out in the hall speaking to a heart specialist. I didnt want to leave her so I sat by the bed.

I started telling her how much I loved her and hope that I made her proud. I burst into tears and they fell onto the bed and my hand clasping hers. I heard a noise and felt her hand on my head. (she had not moved for days so this shocked me a bit)

She said, “Please dont cry for me. I love you and you have always made me proud. It is my time, dont cry, just know that you have brought me so much happiness and love that I couldnt imagine life without you!” And than she went quiet…..

….2 days later she was gone and I feel so blessed that I was the one she talked to before she died.

Although it has been many years, I cry as I type this because I loved her so much. On the joke side of my family…they keep reminding me why I didnt ask her for the “burnt onions”recipe! LOL. Always makes me chuckle.

I hope one day you can laugh when remembering Ga-Ga but I know like myself tears will be shed because…well, we loved them so darn much!

I can “feel” the love through your sharing and believe it is good to share. And, call me silly, but i think Ga-ga is smiling.

sending prayers of comfort…….

735

Lynn P On Monday, December 10 at 6:01 pm

Ree, just wanted you to know this post made me cry. And I wanted to say thank you.

736

shirley mae On Monday, December 10 at 6:03 pm

That is so funny about the earrings. I watched and didn’t notice, good show by the way.
I bet it was GaGa, she was saying enough crying girls, we had alot of laughs too.
Remeber I will be watching you gals.

737

Esther On Monday, December 10 at 6:07 pm

Dear Ree,

I’m so sorry about your Grandmother’s passing. I’ve had the privilege of being one for almost 17 years. You’ll be an awesome one someday. Do you know why I know? You had a great teacher. Keep those memories alive and take time to grieve.

Hugs from one of your many fans,
Esther

738

Phyllis On Monday, December 10 at 6:07 pm

Ree,
This post is so, so, so true in every way and every word. I am blessed to be a Meme to two precious grandbabies, a granddaughter who is eight and a grandson who is five. I carry on some of my memories of my dear Grandma who passed away when I was eleven and those of my Mama who my daughter thought hung the moon and was a wonderful Grandma to her. Continued prayers to you and yours.

739

Elizabeth from Austin On Monday, December 10 at 6:08 pm

Ree I am so sorry you are experiencing the loss of your wonderful Ga Ga. Your post made my heart feel like it was being squeezed. My Papaw passed away almost 2 months ago and I share many of the sentiments you have written about. Grandparents are so precious beyond words. You and your family are in my thoughts.

740

cheryl On Monday, December 10 at 6:08 pm

Ree,
Some of us come from dysfunctuional and abusive homes, and to have a grandma on your side that revels in any good that comes into your life is wonderful. I had one grandmother that was like a stranger and one that was a real grandma. If you have one that really cares about you cherish every moment you have with her. And that is the same with grandpas. But I think grandmas are so special because they can have that maternal loving feeling towards their Grandchildren. Ree my grandma used ponds cream on her face every night too.

741

Georgia B On Monday, December 10 at 6:09 pm

#6 is so comforting, you can let your mind be there anytime and you will be more grateful as times goes by that you went to Tennessee . What a loving tribute to your grandmother. Being a grandmother is a blessing, grandchildren give us so much joy and love. Tell more stories anytime.

742

forever montana On Monday, December 10 at 6:10 pm

Rhee, what a blessing for you, your sister, and your grandmother. You spent precious time with each other..time is such a gift. A similar thing recently happened with my mother, except it was going to see her youngest sister. She was hesitant about making the trip, but went. They had such a wonderful time. The week following her returning home, my aunt passed away unexpectedly. As I said, time is a gift,and spending it with those we love is a blessing. You and your family are in my prayers.

743

Zel On Monday, December 10 at 6:12 pm

I too have lost both of my grandmothers, as well as having the privilege to remember 3 of my great grandmothers. I feel your loss and pain. They were all the nicest ladies in the world, as I’m sure yours was. Hugs!

744

Carol H. On Monday, December 10 at 6:15 pm

It’s ok to write about your grandma that’s what friend do…share good times and bad. Both my grandmothers are gone and as unbelievable as it sounds they both died on my birthday. My paternal grandmother died on my 21st birthday and my maternal Mamaw died in 2000. I miss them both still and still cry when I go to my Mamaw’s house. Time will soften the pain but cling to your memories and know one day you will be with her again.

745

Patti Z On Monday, December 10 at 6:15 pm

Your posts about your grandmother have been a lovely tribute and have brought tears to my eyes. I’m so glad you we’re able to see her recently. I hope that and your wonderful memories bring you comfort. Our loved ones live forever in our hearts and memories.

746

Lyn C On Monday, December 10 at 6:17 pm

Dearest, Ree, You are in my heart and mind over the lost of your beloved, GaGa. I understand the pain of this loss as, loosing my dearest,Memere was the hardest loss that I have faced in my life. But, I am grateful that grief has turned to loving memories of her that bring joy and warmth through the years. Because of my memere, I am able to be the best memere that I can be to my dear grandchildren. GaGa, lives on in your heart and soul!

747

Ree Ree S. On Monday, December 10 at 6:19 pm

Dear Ree and family….I write these words with tears flowing, for you so exude, through your words, the compassionate love you have for your precious Ga-Ga…I want to share with you a quote we had engraved on our father’s memorial marker….”WHAT WE KEEP IN MEMORY…IS OURS UNCHANGED FOREVER.” I know you have everlasting memories that you can talk about and share to keep her legacy living on forever…May GOD wrap his blanket of love and comfort around you…

748

mamajenny On Monday, December 10 at 6:26 pm

Both of my grandmothers were gone by the time I was born, so I never knew them. I did, however, get to watch my mom and mother in law be grandmothers, and it was rich! Now I’m a grandma. I’m a young grandma, and I’m so thankful for that. I plan to be the great grandma who still watches after the kids.

I have a granddaughter, and we have a very special bond. She often tells me that I am her “other mother”. ( she loves her mama dearly) Reading about this special bond you had with GaGa, makes me cry. I know how the two of you felt/feel. You were richly blessed.

749

Mae Moosa On Monday, December 10 at 6:29 pm

So sorry for your loss but so thankful for you appreciating what you had. Your grandmother was so proud of you and for that you gave her so much. There is one legacy we have as mothers even grandmothers and that is our children. How proud you have made her and what a gift that is for her.

750

Emma in Ft. Worth On Monday, December 10 at 6:32 pm

I am so sorry to hear about GaGa. I see another comment as to how MUCH Betsy looks like young GaGa! Amazing!
It is an amazing blessing that you had your GaGa for so long – I never knew one grandmother, and the other died when I was in high school – and I hardly knew her.
What a gift to have the love and wonderful memories of your GaGa. That does make the loss even greater…

751

Pam On Monday, December 10 at 6:32 pm

Thank you for being real. It is never easy to lose someone dear. My prayers are with you and your family.

752

Melissa in Texas On Monday, December 10 at 6:35 pm

Grandmothers are very special!! I learned so much from both of mine. I miss them both everyday!

753

Leanne On Monday, December 10 at 6:36 pm

Beautiful….well said. Grandma’s are a blessing and leave such a legacy behind.

754

Chand On Monday, December 10 at 6:37 pm

I’m sorry for your loss – I didn’t know about it until now. I was close to both of my grandmothers and understand how you feel. Now I’m facing the reality that I will lose my mother soon. The natural order of things, but as you said, it doesn’t make it any easier. Praying for peace and comfort for your family!

756

bobolink On Monday, December 10 at 6:40 pm

my grandma died 18 years ago and i still think of her every single day. what a life to have led.

757

laura in san diego On Monday, December 10 at 6:45 pm

I am sitting here crying as I read your words..all so true about a much-loved grandmother.
You and your family are in my prayers and thoughts.

758

janie m On Monday, December 10 at 6:46 pm

i am so sorry for your loss. remember she will always live in your heart.

759

Meg On Monday, December 10 at 6:46 pm

Ree, thank you for sharing. Those of us who have lost someone close remember well those last few times together …. and the significance of those seemingly routine things such as rubbing cream on your Grandmother’s face, stand out now, after they have died, as memories so so cherished. Take care of yourself, cry for your sweet grandmother, remember her always, and pass down treasured memories of her to your own children. Blessings to you and yours.

760

Denise Manning On Monday, December 10 at 6:47 pm

Ree – I lost my Grandma almost two years ago. Some days it is still really hard, but those days are getting farther apart as time goes by. I now have a grandson and I hope some day he will think as much of me as I do of her. I’ve learned it’s ok to cry and to laugh over the memories of her. I’m so grateful for the forty seven years I had with her. I hope that in time your grief will ease and you will be able to laugh more when remembering Ga Ga.

761

cheryl On Monday, December 10 at 6:48 pm

I love to hear what each person calls their grandma. My hubby called his mom mimi because her name was millie and he couldn’t say millie, just mimi-so the entire family called her mimi. I have 2 granddaughters, one 5 and one just 9 months and I’m trying to figure out what they should call me. I really enjoy being a grandma and someday Ree you’ll have the joy of being a grandma too. I believe you’ll see your GaGa again some day too.

762

Sue Luna On Monday, December 10 at 6:48 pm

Precious memories, how they linger!

763

Linda On Monday, December 10 at 6:55 pm

I am very sorry for your lose. Just remember that you have your memories and they can never be taken from you.

764

Kare On Monday, December 10 at 7:00 pm

Sorry for your loss…prayers for you. I just lost my father on Thanksgiving Day so my heart-felt sympathy goes out to you..

765

Cathy On Monday, December 10 at 7:05 pm

Lovely words and such truth! I feel so much the same way about losing my mother-in-law–4 years ago this Christmas Eve. She was 88 years young! Precious to me. My own grandmothers….so long ago, but yet, they are such embedded memories in my mind’s eye.

766

Debbie O On Monday, December 10 at 7:07 pm

Wow, got emotional when I got to the Ponds lotion part. What a blessing to share that moment with your Ga-Ga recently. Came on here to offer words of encouragement and condolences, instead felt blessed with reading your latest post as I have been thinking a lot of my grandma who I lost 10.5 years ago…

Seriously, that was a touching post, the best.

Take Care and God Bless you and your family during this time of loss.

767

Pam On Monday, December 10 at 7:09 pm

It is so great you got to see her recently. My grandmother passed away when I was 24. She was a wonderful grandmother. My brother and I both dreamed of her the night after her funeral. It was over the top goose bumps stuff and I don’t think I’ll ever forget it.
It’s great how you keep her alive with remembering who she was and the small details that made her special. I am sure she was incredibly proud of you and your beautiful kiddos.

768

LibbyS On Monday, December 10 at 7:12 pm

Very sorry for your loss.

769

Mary Lynn On Monday, December 10 at 7:13 pm

Thank you for sharing Ree…never, ever feel like we don’t want to read your story about your family during this difficult time. You are very inspiring and I am so glad that you and your sister had a special visit with your grandmother. My mother is aging and struggling with her memory. I live 6 hours away, but I try to go visit as much as I can and I really make the very most of our time together!

770

Kris On Monday, December 10 at 7:13 pm

In the last 5 years I’ve lost both Grandmothers and my Grandpa (I never knew my other Grandpa which does make me sad because that means my Dad was so young when he lost his Father). I miss them all even though I know I was blessed to have them in my life for so long. This will be the first Christmas without my Grandpa. I don’t think we are ever ready to loose a loved one no matter how old they may be. Condolences to you and your family on the loss of your beloved Ga-Ga.

771

Mary Estelle On Monday, December 10 at 7:16 pm

My wish for you is peace. She still lives in you, Ree.

772

Jen S On Monday, December 10 at 7:20 pm

Your grandmother was a beautiful soul, I can see how much she meant to you and your family.

Losing a loved one is the greatest challenge we face in life. I’ve lost more family members than I can believe: Both grandmothers, Mom, Dad, 2 brothers and a sister. The circumstances of each death were remarkably different, yet, in the end, the same.

Please embrace your memories of GaGa, tuck them away in your heart, and she will always be there for you. That carries us through life. No matter how old those memories are, they will not leave you.

Peace to you,
Jen

773

Debbie S. On Monday, December 10 at 7:24 pm

Oh, Ree. All the comments! Love your site. I had the extraordinary experience of living with my grandma when my first husband was incarcerated. LOL. He was in jail for selling drugs and I was a stupid young girl just trying to do right.She was my light and my force. My dad died 10 years ago this week; not sure now that the hawks I see while traveling are my dad or my grandparents. They were such special people in my life.

774

Brook V On Monday, December 10 at 7:28 pm

I am so sorry for your loss. I would have posted earlier but I kept dissolving into tears every time I looked at your earlier post. The first picture of Ga-Ga and your grandfather kept reminding me of the picture I posted when I lost my grandmother earlier this year. I titled it “Together again”. Two wonderful people who meant the world to me and to each other.

775

Elaine On Monday, December 10 at 7:29 pm

I just spent this past weekend with my 82 year old mother, who over the last few years has suffered several falls and has become more frail. I watched as her 12 year old great grandson interacted with her. He just adores his great grandma. My sisters daughter and my son spent a great deal of time with her this weekend, making new memories for her and for themselves. Those memories, just as your memories will be the blanket of comfort that will cover them and you through the grief of her death. Yes…we know it will happen but No…we are never quite prepared or ever ready. Lord Bless you as you continue to work through your loss. Continue remembering and loving your grandmother…it will carry you through the weeks.

776

Tina On Monday, December 10 at 7:30 pm

Oh sweet little Ree, you are like a member of my family that I’ve never met. I’m so terribly sorry for your loss, and equally happy for the time you and your family had with GaGa. In sharing your grief, you have allowed many of us to reach back to cherished moments and pictures in our minds that will never fade. They won’t for you, either, just so you know. I must say, keep her name in your house alive. Don’t avoid it to prevent sadness, welcome it to encourage her love and goodness to live on.

777

Katie On Monday, December 10 at 7:31 pm

I’m so sorry for your loss but so happy that you have such wonderful memories.

778

Displaced Sooner On Monday, December 10 at 7:33 pm

You couldn’t be more right about the importance of saying goodbye to her and telling her you loved her. It is my absolute biggest regret since losing my sweet husband 4 yrs. ago so shockingly suddenly. After 24 yrs. together, I’d give anything for just 5 more minutes.

Talk about your Gaga all you want to us, Ree. It will help keep her memory alive.

779

Isabelle K On Monday, December 10 at 7:35 pm

How blessed you both have been to have had each other. Now that I am a “Nani” myself,I know that special love one feels for their grandchildren. God bless you and all of your family.Gaga is watching over you all.

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Sara On Monday, December 10 at 7:38 pm

You have received your Christmas blessing…you have touched the face of love.

You’ve written such lovely things about your grandmother. I know the pain of losing such a sweet grandparent, too. My Mama Jones has been gone 24 years but I can still recall the sweet sound of her voice, the soft touch of her hands, the very scent of her…a mixture of Teaberry Gum and Jergens Lotion. She was my very best friend until I was 22 years old and I’ve missed her every single day since she’s been gone. But I promise you that while you’ll always think of and miss your Ga-Ga, the pain of losing her will gently fade and the memories you have will be the balm that heals your aching heart. God bless you and yours.

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Sandie On Monday, December 10 at 7:41 pm

I lost my Grandma a long time ago. I was only 23. I have missed her. I always wished my children could have known her. You are blessed to have your Grandma with you into your 40’s.

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Jenny On Monday, December 10 at 7:42 pm

Well Said-Amen. Having a speciial relationship with your grandmother is a special gift from God. I lost both of mine sevral years ago. Still think of them often. Cherish the memories.

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susan On Monday, December 10 at 7:42 pm

I am so sorry for your loss and so happy for you that you loved and got to be loved by this beautifull lady, your Gaga.

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alisha r On Monday, December 10 at 7:43 pm

<3

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Carolyn N On Monday, December 10 at 7:44 pm

My last two grandparents died when I was two…I always wanted a grandma like you describe and like our two (now grown) sons had. I hope I will get a chance to be a grandma someday when our sons are ready…and I hope I have a granddaughter like you.
Big Hugs,

Beautifully written, the loss of someone special is a unique experience. But looking on the brighter side of things, I have found that it usually brings the family closer together. When my grandfather passed, all of us grandkids started playing flag football together, we even one a championship! And I know that he would have absolutely loved that. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

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Leah P. On Monday, December 10 at 7:47 pm

I loved reading this post. It’s everything I feel about my grandma and she hasn’t even died yet. She’s 85 and I keep thinking how sad I’ll be when she finally goes. This Christmas I put up the nativity she handpainted for me. I looked at all the detail and was amazed at how much work she put into it. I need to tell her I love her more often. Time goes by so fast that I can’t help but cry thinking about her. I wish I could rewind time.

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Celeste On Monday, December 10 at 7:48 pm

Grandmothers are dear in a special way to most of us…and, in a way, they do live on. I saw your sister, Betsy, In the picture of your grandmother and grandfather.

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Ann Mc On Monday, December 10 at 7:49 pm

I understand not wanting to do anything more than write about your grandmother and I’m glad you had such a special relationship. I wish you days of sunshine and happy memories….and you are in my prayers.

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Amy L. On Monday, December 10 at 7:50 pm

I am just catching up and wanted to offer my sympathy to you and your family. Seems harder to lose a loved one so close to the holidays somehow. This post touched me as I lost my dad to cancer last month and got to spend a lot of time with him and am thankful for the little moments, just as you are for those with Ga – Ga. Peace, comfort and blessings to you.

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Munchiedog On Monday, December 10 at 7:51 pm

Your words are so perfect and beautiful.. I honestly feel my grandmother is with me everyday.. Thoughts of her and the stories she would tell me when I was very little can still make me calm and peaceful. I guess some Grandmothers give that wonderful unconditional love that can be so rare. I have found the ache of missing her has never really subsided.

Camille P On Monday, December 10 at 8:02 pm

I never knew my grandmothers. They passed before I was born. I knew my mother mother by my Mom’s stories. It’s been four years (Nov 17th since my mother passed. I think about her all the time. Miss her terribly especially around the holidays. Every moment and memory is precious. The china she loved, the handwritten recipes on 3×5 cards, her Xmas ornaments, the linens she selected. It was the most precious moment of my life to be with her as she took her last breathe. I remember and live that line in Steel Magnolias (edited by me)…she was there when I came into the world and I was there for her when she went on from the world. It was the most intimate and precious moment of my life. What a privilege to be there for her in that moment. Love the ones you are with Ree! Hug them close and don’t take any day for granted.

I also know that everyone ‘s grief is unique. Just be in it. It gets better. Doesn’t mean you forget, justo and it doesn’t hurt so much. Hugs to you!

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Debbie Darling On Monday, December 10 at 8:02 pm

Reading about Ga-ga’s passing opened up my broken heart that was healing since my Granda Kitty died in Dec. 2008. It hurts so much to loose your Grandma. I had a special connection with my Grandma, and I like to think I was her favorite (ok, I know I was.) When she died My heart broke, I wanted to hold her hands one more time, look into her blue eyes just one more time, but I couldn’t. I loved my Grama, my etsy shop is dedicated to her, she was so wonderful. You never get over losing your grama, it just hurts a little less over time.

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SoCalLynn On Monday, December 10 at 8:03 pm

You are so blessed to have had your grandma all the way into your 40’s! Iost my grandma when I was 30. Also, my dad was killed just 2 months ago by a hit-and-run driver. It is a shocking loss my family will never recover from, plus the added grief of going through a trial now is really causing my mom such added stress. I am so sorry for your loss and that of your family’s, and thank you for sharing your memories with us.

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Lavonn Wiltshire On Monday, December 10 at 8:04 pm

Loved Your Thoughts, Ree! Prayers! I never got to know the Love of a Grandma. My last died when I was 2. But I did have a Great Aunt who was a Great substitute!

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Lisa Kozma On Monday, December 10 at 8:07 pm

Ree, I am so sorry for your loss. I never knew my grandmothers and I wish I would have had the opportunity to make memories with them like you did with your treasured Ga Ga. Thank you for sharing these posts and for sharing stores of your Grandmother and her love for you and her strong faith in our Heavenly Father.
She was such a beautiful woman… your daughters look a little like her.. what a wonderful legacy to pass on.
May God bring you and your family His peace and comfort, cherish all your wonderful memories.

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Molly On Monday, December 10 at 8:09 pm

My grandmothers have been gone for many years, but I have beautiful and loving memories of both of them. The experiencies that I had with both of them are helping me be a grandmother today. Everytime I make a memory with my grandchildren I am reminded of them. I treasuer these times and look up to the heavens and give a smile and thanks. Grandmas are with us forever…..it really is a most important and beyond gratifying job. A job that only a chosen few are bless
ed with. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

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Angie C. On Monday, December 10 at 8:10 pm

Ree,

Sometimes I laugh because your posts sound like something I would say.

Today, I cried because your post sounds exactly like how I felt about my grandma’s death.